Ethics - A matter of principle?Part 2: Rationality, ends, and the levels of moral discourse

Abstract

Discussion of bioethical issues using four principles approach proposed by Beauchamp and Childress is now standard practice in the UK. An earlier paper documented the history of principlism before considering its impact and reviewing some criticisms of the approach. This paper will examine some of the philosophical difficulties in greater depth. A particular concern is that principlism leads to thin debate with consideration of means without due concern regarding their intended ends.